With the rise of remote and hybrid work becoming standard, office furniture companies globally offer a new solution for completing daily essential tasks. Since 2020, there has been a significant boom in standing desks to help busy office workers seamlessly alternate between sitting and standing at their desks. These desks’ ergonomic and lumbar support help support proper spinal alignment, reducing the risk of back pain like sciatica.
You are in the right place if you have yet to invest in a standing desk but are interested in one now. Standing desks can only be effective if they are set up correctly to the adequate height requirements. Understanding the importance of setting the correct ergonomic height of a standing desk is critical for gaining the most benefit. Today, we will focus on determining the best ergonomic height for your office and why it is crucial for productivity and comfort.
How to Define Ergonomic Height
If you have ever overseen ordering office furniture for your office, odds are you have heard of the term ergonomic. In the context of standing desks, ergonomic height refers to the optimal height your desk should be set to promote comfort, prevent strain, and improve posture while working. This encompassing term expands to all types of office furniture, from chairs, desks, sofas, and even storage solutions.
When it comes to a standing desk, ergonomic height is key in preventing discomfort and physical strain. An increase in movement may even promote healthier lifestyle changes. The goal with these desks is to ensure that your body is positioned in a natural, neutral position without any awkward angles or strain on your muscles.
Repetitive stress injuries and musculoskeletal discomfort are common among office workers who spend long hours in sedentary positions. Ergonomic height is essential because if the height of your standing desk is not correctly adjusted, you might experience an increase in discomfort-just in a different form than if you were sitting.
Ergonomics matters because it offers a solution to the many issues of discomfort we have discussed and may even offer health benefits. For example, standing for periods throughout the day may help reduce the risk of obesity, lower blood sugar levels, or even improve circulation. However, these benefits result from the proper height conditions of your standing desk, so it is essential to adjust it correctly.
Guidelines for Setting the Right Ergonomic Standing Desk Height
Now that we understand the importance of ergonomics let’s figure out how to ensure your standing desk is at the correct ergonomic height. Determining the correct height will take examining a few factors while ensuring inclusivity to individual body proportions and preferences.
Desk Height
Your standing desk should be adjusted to a height that comfortably fits your elbows at a 90-degree angle or slightly obtuse when standing. Your forearms should be parallel to the ground, and your hands should rest comfortably on the keyboard without much effort. If the desk is too high or low, you may need to adjust it. Keeping it at an awkward height and angle will create unnecessary strain on your shoulders, wrists, and lower back.
For more thorough directions for setting the height on your standing desk, you can do the following:
- Stand up straight and relax your shoulders
- Bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle
- Make sure your elbows are parallel to the floor
- The desk surface should come to the height of your elbows
Again, this is a general guide, and each standing desk model will have unique instructions for setting the height. Our expert team at ABE is also more than happy to adjust the desk for you to ensure it fits comfortably. It is also worth noting that adjustable standing desks allow easy tweaks and changes to ensure your comfort.
Fixed standing desks will be a bit trickier if you invest in multiple versions for office staff, as your team has different body and height requirements. If you do, however, choose to move forward with a fixed height, make sure it is suitable for the intended user.
Foot Position and Anti-Fatigue Mats
Although standing desks have been shown to positively impact employee health and well-being, they can also cause strain on the feet. Investing in an anti-fatigue mat can reduce strain on your feet and legs, especially for workers standing for long hours. These mats can cushion and support your feet, encouraging subtle movement in your legs and reducing fatigue.
Additionally, standing correctly with good posture and avoiding locking your knees can help provide ultimate comfort and reduce muscle strain. Alternating between standing and sitting is one of the most effective ways to benefit greatly from your standing desks.
A solid guideline to follow may be standing for about 15 to 30 minutes every hour or so to avoid sitting completely sedentary for the day. Finding a balance between sitting and standing at your desk is one of the most effective ways to find comfort and boost productivity in your daily operations.
Tips for Ergonomic Success
Setting the correct height for your ergonomic standing desk is critical. However, a massive part of achieving a successful desk setup goes beyond desk height. For instance, the following tips can help you promote maximum comfort in your office:
- Posture: Encourage mindful posture while standing by ensuring your shoulders are relaxed and your spine is straight. Proper posture will only maximize the benefits of your ergonomic desk height.
- Footwear: Comfortable and sturdy shoes with good arch support can make all the difference. Avoid sandals, standing barefoot, or wearing high heels for prolonged periods.
- Movement: Follow a system that allows you to alternate your sitting and standing schedule to maximize and focus on movement. Sitting or standing still for too long can cause significant discomfort, so finding ways to stretch or take short walks is key.
We hope these tips help you enjoy the full benefits of standing desks. When you set your standing desk up for success, you set your team up for greater productivity, fewer distractions from discomfort, and a healthier, more energized workday.
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